Packing the right shoes can make or break your travel experience. As we head into fall 2025, finding sneakers that balance comfort, style, and versatility is crucial for any journey. These top-rated travel sneakers will keep your feet happy whether you’re rushing through airports, exploring cobblestone streets, or hiking scenic trails.
On Cloud 5
Forbes Vetted crowned these the Best Walking Travel Shoe for Men, and for good reason. The cloud-like cushioning feels like walking on air even after hours of sightseeing. Breathable mesh uppers keep feet cool in warm destinations while the lightweight design won’t weigh down your luggage. Travelers particularly love the easy on-off system – a lifesaver when navigating airport security lines.
Allbirds Wool Runners
Business travelers swear by these refined minimalist sneakers that transition seamlessly from flights to casual meetings. The natural merino wool construction adapts to your foot temperature – warming when it’s cold, cooling when it’s hot. Odor resistance is the hidden superpower here, allowing multiple wears without washing. The classic silhouette pairs easily with travel wardrobes, while the removable insoles accommodate custom orthotics for personalized comfort.
Kizik London Hands-Free Sneaker
Imagine gliding through airport security without bending down to remove or retie your shoes. The ingenious heel design collapses when you slide your foot in, then springs back to secure your heel – no hands required! Travel + Leisure named these their Best Overall Men’s Travel Sneaker for good reason. The sleek leather-inspired uppers maintain a polished look while concealing the revolutionary technology within.
Hoka Clifton 9
Marathon runners and casual travelers alike gravitate toward the Clifton 9’s signature chunky-yet-lightweight profile. The maximalist cushioning absorbs impact whether you’re pounding city pavements or dashing to catch connections. Travel + Leisure highlighted these as the Best Running Travel Shoe for their versatility. Despite the substantial cushioning, they remain surprisingly packable, compressing nicely in luggage. The meta-rocker design promotes natural foot movement, reducing fatigue during long travel days.
Adidas Runfalcon 2.0
Budget-conscious travelers rejoice! These wallet-friendly sneakers earned Travel + Leisure’s Most Durable distinction for their impressive longevity. The reinforced heel counter and durable outsole withstand cobblestone streets and mountain trails alike. Unlike many budget options, the Runfalcon doesn’t sacrifice comfort for price. The cushioned midsole provides surprising responsiveness during long walking tours. Available in countless colorways, they’re easy to match with any travel wardrobe while maintaining that classic Adidas aesthetic.
New Balance 990 v6
Finding the perfect fit becomes a non-issue with New Balance’s impressive size range. Travel + Leisure crowned these the Best Size Options for travelers with narrow or wide feet who struggle with standard sizing. The legendary ENCAP midsole technology delivers stability without compromising flexibility – crucial when navigating uneven terrain abroad. American-made craftsmanship ensures these sneakers can handle whatever your itinerary throws at them. Fun fact: The 990 series has maintained its iconic silhouette since 1982!
NOBULL Allday Ripstop
Adventure travelers need gear that transitions seamlessly from airports to trails. The Allday Ripstop earned Travel + Leisure’s Best Lightweight distinction for its remarkable versatility in various environments. Military-grade ripstop fabric resists tears and abrasions while remaining incredibly light. The anatomical sockliner molds to your foot’s unique contours, reducing hotspots during extended wear. Unlike many technical shoes, these maintain a streamlined aesthetic that doesn’t scream “tourist” when worn with casual outfits in urban settings.
Atoms Model 000
Sustainable travelers will appreciate these eco-conscious sneakers that Travel + Leisure recognized for their environmental credentials. The modular design allows for replacing individual components rather than discarding the entire shoe when worn. Copper-lined insoles naturally eliminate odor-causing bacteria – a game-changer during multi-week journeys with limited laundry access. The stretchy upper adapts to foot swelling that commonly occurs during long flights. Quarter-size increments ensure an unprecedented custom fit that conventional whole and half sizes can’t match.
Sperry Classic CVO Canvas Sneaker
Coastal travelers have relied on Sperry’s nautical heritage since 1935. These canvas classics earned Travel + Leisure’s Best Canvas designation for their exceptional breathability in humid environments. The vulcanized construction creates a flexible, packable profile that barely takes up suitcase space. Wave-siping patterns on the rubber outsoles provide remarkable traction on wet surfaces – perfect for unexpected rain showers or boat excursions. Historical note: These were originally designed for sailors who needed non-marking, slip-resistant footwear on deck!
Vessi Everyday Move
Rain-soaked vacations no longer mean soggy socks! The Nomad Almanac named these their Best Overall Travel Shoes for their remarkable waterproof knit technology that repels moisture while allowing feet to breathe. Unlike traditional waterproof footwear, these lightweight sneakers look like normal casual shoes. The proprietary Dyma-tex membrane blocks water molecules while allowing smaller air molecules to escape – preventing the swampy feeling of conventional waterproof shoes. Bonus: They’re machine washable for easy cleaning between adventures!
Allbirds Tree Runners
Urban explorers covering miles of city streets will love these lightweight alternatives to their wool counterparts. The Nomad Almanac praised them specifically for City Walking thanks to their eucalyptus tree fiber construction. These fibers create a cooling mesh that outperforms synthetic materials in heat regulation. The unique S-curve tread pattern provides surprising grip on slick city surfaces after rain. Environmentally conscious travelers appreciate that each pair’s carbon footprint is nearly 30% lower than industry standards, with Allbirds offsetting the remainder to achieve carbon neutrality.
New Balance FuelCore Nergize V1
Female travelers with limited luggage space celebrate these ultra-lightweight champions. The Nomad Almanac designated them Best Lightweight Travel Sneakers for Women, noting their astonishing 150-gram per shoe weight. The collapsible heel counter allows them to pack completely flat in carry-ons. Memory foam inserts provide surprising cushioning despite the minimal profile. The sleek, unassuming design pairs easily with everything from athletic wear to casual dresses, reducing the number of shoes needed for varied itineraries – a true packing list hero!
